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How to get from Cordoba to Malaga
High-speed trains run between Córdoba and Málaga María Zambrano in about 1 hour, many times a day. Driving on the A-45 takes about 1 h 45 to 2 h, and buses take roughly 2 h 30 to 3 h.
Best option: Train. High-speed trains take about an hour centre to centre and run frequently.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train Renfe AVE / Avant high-speed trains (also some other high-speed operators) from Córdoba to Málaga María Zambrano | about 1 h to 1 h 10 | many a day | about €15–45 | Reservations are required on high-speed trains; book early for the best fares. Check current timetables. |
| car A-45 motorway south via Lucena and Antequera | about 1 h 45 to 2 h (about 165 km) | fuel only, no tolls | Parking in central Málaga is mostly in paid underground garages. | |
| bus Regional buses from Córdoba bus station to Málaga | about 2 h 30 to 3 h | several a day | about €15–20 | Slower and not much cheaper than advance train fares. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Córdoba bus and train stations are next to each other.
- Málaga María Zambrano station is about 20 minutes on foot or a short bus ride from the centre.
- Book the Mezquita or Alhambra slots in advance if you plan to combine cities.
- Antequera and the El Torcal park are on the way if driving.
Common questions
How long is the train from Córdoba to Málaga?
High-speed trains take about 1 hour to 1 h 10 between Córdoba and Málaga María Zambrano, with no change. They run many times a day. Seat reservations are compulsory and included in the ticket. Book online in advance for lower fares, especially on Friday and Sunday afternoons and during holiday periods.
What is the cheapest way from Córdoba to Málaga?
Advance-purchase high-speed train fares are often the cheapest and fastest option, sometimes under €20. Buses cost about €15–20 but take two or three times longer. Prices for trains rise close to departure, so if you book late, the bus may be cheaper. Compare both before buying.
Can I do Málaga as a day trip from Córdoba?
Yes. With about an hour each way by train, you can spend a full day in Málaga visiting the Alcazaba, the cathedral, the Picasso Museum and the beach at La Malagueta. Check the last train back, as fares for evening trains on busy days can be higher than morning ones.
Is it worth driving from Córdoba to Málaga?
Driving takes about 1 h 45 to 2 h on the toll-free A-45 and makes sense if you want to stop in Antequera or El Torcal, or continue to villages without train service. For city to city, the train is faster and avoids paying for parking in Málaga, which can be expensive in the centre.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.